The Mark of the Dragonfly by Jaleigh Johnson
Synopsis:
Piper has never seen the Mark of the Dragonfly until she finds the girl amid the wreckage of a caravan in the Meteor Fields. The girl doesn’t remember a thing about her life, but the intricate tattoo on her arm is proof that she’s from the Dragonfly Territories and that she’s protected by the king. Which means a reward for Piper if she can get the girl home.
The one sure way to the Territories is the 401, a great old beauty of a train. But a ticket costs more coin than Piper could make in a year. And stowing away is a difficult prospect—everyone knows that getting past the peculiar green-eyed boy who stands guard is nearly impossible. Life for Piper just turned dangerous. A little bit magical. And very exciting, if she can manage to survive the journey.
Review:
Piper is a gifted mechanic with a good heart. To help a young stranger, Piper leaves the only home she’s ever known into uncertain danger.
The Mark of the Dragonfly is an exciting, fast-paced story in a unique world. Full of danger, intrigue, drama, magic, and a bit of romance – this one was hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, the story, and the incredible worldbuilding. Johnson’s world of steampunk/science fiction/fantasy is fascinating and complex. I can’t wait to read the upcoming companion novel, The Secrets of Solace.